6 Tech gadgets every senior needs

Author: HCF Management

May 30, 2017

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While you might not think about the latest tech trends converging with senior must-haves, the truth is often technology can immensely help seniors age in place. With gadgets, seniors can have more independence for longer, while at the same time keeping loved ones connected and comforted.

Not only does technology help us stay connected with our families, but it can also keep seniors safe and more comfortable. And while many people may think seniors have a harder time keeping up with technology, there are many gadgets that aren’t complicated – or even expensive. As an added bonus, if your mom or dad is using the internet, they have less of a chance of depression.

So what are the best gadgets for seniors? Read on to learn more!

Lively

Nobody really enjoys the thought of spying, but this medical alert watch can make sure your loved one stays safe while maintaining their independence. The Lively 24/7 Emergency Medical Alert System includes a watch and in-home hub and activity sensors that monitor the health and wellness of seniors in the comfort of their own home. It allows caregivers to check in and make sure medication is taken on time and food is eaten, or any other custom daily routines are being kept.

The sensors attach to movable objects and run in the background. There are no video cameras used. The watch can alert seniors if they’ve missed an activity, like failing to take medication, shows seniors how many steps they’ve taken and a coming feature will auto detect falls.

Using an online dashboard, you can see if the watch is being worn and how active your loved one has been. You can also check activity sensors and view any notifications. The Lively system also makes it easy to keep up with seniors by using an app for your smartphone. You can also invite other family members and caregivers to have access to the dashboard.

Jitterbug Cell Phone

Not only will seniors be able to keep in touch with friends and family, the Jitterbug Cell Phone is also a mobile health and safety tool. The phone has a 5Star Urgent Response with access to registered nurses and board-certified doctors 24/7, with just a click of a button. Depending which device you purchase, your senior can receive daily check-in or weekly wellness calls, fall detection, MedCoach and more. There are no annual contracts, no cancellation fees and features 100 percent U.S. based customer service.

There are several phones to pick from, and you can choose which will be good for your loved one based on the seniors familiarity with technology.

Moneual Rydis H68 Pro Hybrid Robotic Vacuum Cleaner

As people age, chores can become more difficult, especially rigorous cleaning such as sweeping, vacuuming and mopping. Such chores can present injury and fall risk as well. With the power of technology, you can make it a little easier for you or your loved one. Get them a robot that cleans for them! The Moneual Rydis H68 Pro Hybrid Robotic Vacuum Cleaner not only vacuums and sweeps carpet and hardwood, but mops floors as well.

iPad or Reading Tablet

This one will be determined by the technology skill level of the senior who will be using the device and the price point they – or you – have. But there are many tablet options to choose from, from basic e-readers to complex computing machines. If you or your loved ones once read voraciously but now has a problem turning pages or reading the print, an e-reader will make it easier to continue reading. If the senior is more technology adept, he or she could use an iPad or other tablet to keep up with emails, play games and keep in contact with loved ones.

Hewlett-Packard Printer with internet connection

All of HP’s printer now come with an internet connection and a unique email address, which means you can set up emails to direct print through the printer. While a senior may not want to deal with a computer and email application, or even reading on a computer screen, it’s much easier just to let the email print so they can read it on paper. Friends, family and even grandchildren can send emails, articles and pictures.

e-pill MedSmart Locked Automatic Medication Pill Dispenser

If your loved one needs a little assistance taking their medication, an automatic pill dispenser may come in handy. Many seniors take about 12 pills a day, and inability to take them independently leads to 40 percent of nursing home admissions. Luckily, a pill dispenser and reminder system can help ensure your loved one is able to take their medicine as the doctor prescribed.

While there are some cheaper options, if you need a heavy duty pill dispenser the e-pill MedSmart dispenser is an option, starting at $489.95 on Amazon. It can dispense pills up to six times a day while remaining fully locked. It also features an alarm, so seniors know when they need to take their medicine. The alarm will not stop until the medicine is removed.